About
I make horror theatre, and research how it is made.
I'm Kirsty Mitchell, a theatre-maker, researcher and educator based in the West Midlands, and the founder of Cursed Tea Productions.
My interest began with stories. A degree in Media, Communication and Culture, with a dissertation on urban legends, sparked a lasting fascination with how frightening narratives travel and change. An MA in Theatre brought that onto the stage, and my practice-based PhD at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire develops a practical framework for how theatre-makers create effective horror.
Horror is one of the most studied genres in film and literature, yet its life on stage has received far less attention. My work sets out to change that.
Background
- BA Media, Communication and Culture Dissertation on urban legends
- MA Theatre Guildford School of Acting
- PhD · In progress A Framework for Effective Horror Theatre Practice-based, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
- Teaching qualification Post-compulsory education Specialising in arts, media and performance
Teaching & workshops
Workshops and teaching in acting, devising and theatre-making, with a particular focus on the craft of horror: building tension, shaping atmosphere and controlling pace.
Talks
Talks on horror theatre, ghost stories on stage and the folklore of the West Midlands, for festivals, societies, schools and heritage venues.
Collaboration
Working with theatre companies, heritage organisations, researchers and educators on new horror work and research.
Get in touch
For collaborations, workshops, talks or the podcasts. If you know a West Midlands legend that deserves telling, I'd love to hear it.